Indianapolis, December 9, 2025
The Indianapolis Colts are actively pursuing quarterback alternatives after starter Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during a game against the Jaguars. The team is considering a workout with retired quarterback Philip Rivers as they navigate a challenging quarterback situation. With rookie Riley Leonard also dealing with an injury, the Colts are gearing up for crucial upcoming games that will impact their playoff prospects. Head coach Shane Steichen praised Jones’ dedication amid the team’s tough circumstances.
Colts Pursue Quarterback Help Following Jones’ Injury
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indianapolis Colts are on the hunt for quarterback solutions after the season-ending Achilles injury suffered by starter Daniel Jones. The team is scheduled to bring in former quarterback Philip Rivers for a workout, with a possibility of adding him to their practice squad. This development follows Jones’s torn Achilles tendon during a 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.
Current Quarterback Situation
Jones, who joined the Colts this season after previous tenures with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings, had been a key player in the Colts’ success, throwing for 3,101 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. With his injury, the Colts find themselves in a challenging position at quarterback. Rookie Riley Leonard, who stepped in for Jones during the game, is also nursing a knee injury but is expected to start against the Seattle Seahawks. Veteran Brett Rypien currently occupies a spot on the practice squad, while former first-round pick Anthony Richardson remains out due to a broken orbital bone.
Potential Return of Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers, 44, who retired following the 2020 season, led the Colts to the playoffs in his final year. He stands as one of the NFL’s all-time greats, with over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns to his name. The prospect of Rivers returning to the field adds a compelling dynamic to the Colts’ efforts to strengthen their quarterback position.
Upcoming Schedule and Playoff Implications
Currently sitting at 8-5, the Colts are facing a crucial set of games that could determine their playoff fate. They will visit the Seattle Seahawks (10-3) next weekend, followed by home games against the San Francisco 49ers (9-4) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (9-4), and a matchup with the Houston Texans (8-5). With competition heating up in the AFC South division, maintaining performance in these upcoming games will be vital for their playoff aspirations.
Background on Daniel Jones’ Injury
Jones’ injury took place late in the first quarter against the Jaguars with no contact involved. His departure from the field was a poignant moment, marked by visible emotion. Head coach Shane Steichen commended Jones’ dedication, highlighting that he had been playing despite having a fractured left fibula.
Conclusion
As the Colts seek solutions to navigate the quarterback position after Daniel Jones’ injury, the potential return of Philip Rivers signifies a noteworthy shift in their strategy. With an uphill battle ahead, particularly in the tightly contested AFC South, the Colts remain focused on their goal of securing a playoff spot and continuing their competitive edge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Daniel Jones?
Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon during a 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025.
Who is Philip Rivers?
Philip Rivers is a retired NFL quarterback who played 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers and one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020. He ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders with over 63,000 passing yards and 421 touchdowns.
What is the Colts’ current quarterback situation?
With Daniel Jones out for the season and rookie Riley Leonard dealing with a knee injury, the Colts are considering bringing back Philip Rivers to bolster their quarterback position. Veteran Brett Rypien is on the practice squad, and former first-round pick Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with a broken orbital bone.
What is the Colts’ upcoming schedule?
The Colts are set to visit the Seattle Seahawks (10-3) next weekend, followed by home games against the San Francisco 49ers (9-4) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (9-4), and a visit to the Houston Texans (8-5).
How did Daniel Jones’ injury occur?
Jones’ injury occurred late in the first quarter against the Jaguars, with no contact involved. He was visibly emotional as he exited the field. Head coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the severity of the injury, emphasizing Jones’ dedication and toughness, noting that he had been playing through a fractured left fibula.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Injury to Daniel Jones | Season-ending torn Achilles tendon during a 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 7, 2025. |
| Consideration of Philip Rivers’ Return | Colts planning to bring in retired quarterback Philip Rivers for a workout to potentially join their practice squad. |
| Current Quarterback Situation | Rookie Riley Leonard dealing with a knee injury; veteran Brett Rypien on the practice squad; Anthony Richardson sidelined with a broken orbital bone. |
| Upcoming Schedule | Critical games against Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Houston Texans. |
| Background on Daniel Jones’ Injury | Injury occurred late in the first quarter against the Jaguars, with no contact involved; Jones had been playing through a fractured left fibula. |
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